You have signed a contract with an international school and the excitement and anticipation is rising; along with some nervousness. The questions start running through your mind, "What was I thinking? How long am I going to be gone? What do I need to pack? Can I get Reese Peanut Butter Cups over there?" Let me set your mind at ease. Many people have gone before you and have survived and even thrived, some even staying on for several years.

One of the most amazing joys in teaching overseas is the international classroom. More often than not, an international educator will say they have learned far more from their students than what they have taught them. This rich diversity of nations, languages and cultures, as well as the varied experiences of the students, creates a whole new culture within the classroom.

International schools have been around for well over 100 years, initially providing education in the native language and curriculum for children whose parents worked as diplomats. Today, according ICEF (International Consultants for Education and Fairs) there are over 12,000 international schools in operation around the world. The types of international schools are numerous and varied; each one representing a different demographic of students, curriculum, leadership and financing.

With the current teacher crisis, chances are likely you could not only receive one teaching contract, but you could potentially receive more than one offer. Consequently, there are certain things to keep in mind when considering and ultimately, accepting a teaching position.

Once you make a great first impression, keep the ball rolling with effective follow-up!

Last week, you read about three effective tips (research schools and districts, prepare your resume, and dress for success) for preparing for a teacher fair/recruiting event. Now that the day has arrived, how do you maximize the experience so things turn out well in your favor? Review the following keys to successful teacher fair networking strategies and visit your career coach at your university's Career Services center for any additional questions and advice.

Even though teacher fairs typically happen around February or March of each year, it is helpful to consider way for making the most out of a teacher fair by preparing for this important networking event ahead of time. Review the following keys to successful teacher fair preparation and visit your career coach at your university's Career Services center for any additional questions and advice.

Children require structure and support to flourish. Some teachers have found that greeting each child, individually, every morning establishes mutually beneficial respect and an environment of consistency. Some classes function better with a little less structure and can utilize an open seating and honor system for bathroom visits. Do what's best for you and your class while following guidelines of your school and discussing with other education professionals who can offer tips and best practices, especially if you are a first time teacher or new to a school or district.

On average a teacher affects 3,000 children over the course of their career. That's 3,000 lives, 3,000 smiling faces, 3,000 minds. In school kids learn so much more than math or reading.

On average, each school hires no more than 1 art teacher, that does not leave a lot of openings for hirable positions. The number of limited-English speakers in the state has grown by nearly 50 percent in the last decade with about 1 in 5 students struggling with the language. But in that same time, Texas had a dramatic 20 percent drop in the number of educators working in bilingual and ESL classes.